1

Padre Pio Academy

Parent-Student Handbook 2019 – 2020

Instaurare omnia in Christo To Restore All Things in Chris

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction......................................................................2 Mission & Philosophy......................................................2 Admissions.......................................................................3 Collaboration between the Family and the School………………………………..............5 Spiritual Formation………………………………..........8 Daily Schedule…………………………………….........9 Arrival, Departure, & Dismissal Policy…………...........9 Attendance Policy………………………………...........10 Calendar…………………………………………..........12 Meal Policy……………………………………….........12 Health Policy…...………………………………...........13 Grade School Curriculum………………………….......15 Grading & Academic Discipline…………………........17 Honor Roll………………………………………..........19 Homework & Homework Policies……...………..........20 Uniform Policy………..…………………………........22 General School Rules & Guidelines..……………........25 Discipline Policy…...…………………………….........29 Field Trips……………...………………………….......32 Appointments & Contact with School Personnel….......33 Visitor Policy………………………………………......33 Emergency Procedures & School Closings………........34 Tuition, Fundraising, & Financial Aid…………….......34 Volunteering……………………………………….......35 Withdrawal, Transfer, & Readmission…………….......36

3

INTRODUCTION

Padre Pio Academy, a private Catholic school for grades K through 8 and a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates under the guidelines of the United States District of the Society of St. Pius X. This handbook is provided as a reference for parents and students regarding school policy. Padre Pio Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, or national or ethnic origin in the administration and hiring of personnel, admissions, or any other school programs. Padre Pio Academy provides children with a thorough Catholic education founded upon traditional principles. The school strives ultimately to form good Catholic citizens, men and women willing and able to work for the restoration of all things in Christ, freely submitting to the reign of Our Lord in the spiritual, moral, intellectual, and physical realms. MISSION & PHILOSOPHY

Our mission as a private Catholic school is to develop the minds, bodies, and souls of students in accordance with the perennial educational and moral principles of the Roman Catholic Church. We operate under the Society of Saint Pius X, and provide a structured, traditional, social, and academic environment in which students pursue truth within a rigorous, balanced curriculum, and take active part in the life and liturgy of a thriving community fully committed to developing Christian values. By providing an atmosphere of serious scholarship and Catholic vitality, Padre Pio Academy strives, as inspired by the motto of the Society of Saint Pius X, to equip students “To restore all things in Christ.” Learning is a profoundly human process, one best accomplished through patient, qualitative drawing out, rather

4

than mechanistic, quantitative filling up. The school strives continuously to provide the best possible facilities, tools, and material resources, in terms of texts and an integrated curriculum, simultaneously recognizing that our teachers’ mastery of subject matter, ability to communicate, and, above all, love for our students, are what finally foster a desire for learning in those students. Our curriculum challenges minds; our teachers work with God to form souls. ADMISSIONS

Admission packets are available through the school office. Kindergarten applicants must be 5 years old by September 1 of the year of enrollment. School personnel will administer entrance exams to prospective students for grades 1-8 before initial grade placement. Students entering grade 1 must take an entrance exam only if they did not complete Kindergarten at the Academy in the academic year immediately prior to their entrance. Kindergarten students are not tested. A review of academic, testing, and behavioral records from any previous school(s) is a part of the placement process for students entering grades 1-8. Parents must notify the school of any learning, emotional, or behavioral handicaps prior to an applicant’s admission. Religion is integral to the education offered at Padre Pio Academy. All students must submit to the entire curriculum as offered: they must attend all religion classes, conform to all school policies, and participate in all scheduled activities. As a matter of policy, new students in grades 1-8 will be placed on academic probation for at least one semester. New Students

The school considers any child not enrolled in the school during the previous semester a new student for enrollment

5

purposes. The following are required for new student enrollment:

• Proof, on letterhead, of up-to-date fee and tuition payments from the previous school. (Private schools only.)

• All academic, standardized test, and behavioral records for students applying to enter grades 1-8.

• Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students with any documented learning disability.

• Completed registration forms. • Registration and fee payments, along with the

first month’s tuition as per FACTS Tuition Management System.

• A photocopy of the official state-issued birth certificate.

• Physical examination, including physician documentation of hearing and vision screening.

• Copies of all sacramental certificates, including the sacramental marriage certificate of parents.

• Notarized copies of official custodial documents, when applicable.

• Vaccination records showing completion of required inoculations. Medical exemption or letter from the parents may be substituted.

• Meeting with the principal, as required.

Returning Students The following are required for returning student enrollment:

• Demonstration of adequate academic and disciplinary performance to warrant continuation.

• All registration forms completed and turned in by June 30. Late registrations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• Tuition payments current and all fees paid (first

6

tuition payment and fees are due by August 1 or 15 according to FACTS Tuition Management Payment Plan.).

• Vaccination records, medical exemption forms, or exemption statements must be current. Physicals are required for students entering 6th grade.

• Custodial / legal documents provided and up-to-date, if applicable.

• Meeting with the principal, as required. COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE FAMILY AND THE SCHOOL

In the effort to provide a true Catholic formation, Padre Pio Academy needs the cooperation of students’ parents. The Academy strives to implement the laws of God and the discipline of the Church, imperative for the students’ sanctification as well as for their proper intellectual development. Without parental reinforcement—initially entrusting the school with educable children, and supporting school policy and procedures throughout the educational process—the school can accomplish little of lasting impact. With this in mind, the school urges parents to observe the following: Communication

Parents must provide, in an open and timely manner, any information (concerning health, behavioral idiosyncrasies or difficulties, spiritual and intellectual strengths or weaknesses, physical deficiencies, etc.) that may be helpful or necessary in the proper formation of the child. Withholding necessary information not only impedes the efforts of teachers and administrators but indicates a potentially damaging mistrust. In order to maintain the vital cooperation between family and school in the work of education, all communication (written, email, or verbal) between parents and school personnel is expected to be conducted in a civil manner. Use of threatening

7

or intimidating language constitutes a direct attack on the necessary unity among educators, and therefore may result in immediate student dismissal or, in less severe cases, may be used as a factor in determining family eligibility for re-enrollment. Spiritual and Moral Formation

The primary role parents fulfill as educators of their children relates most specifically to the formation of good intellectual and religious habits and attitudes, and the development of a genuine love for learning and the Faith. A balanced and joyful home life, in which children may receive their first experiences of the nourishing authority and protective affection of their heavenly Father, will foster a respectful and affectionate docility in the children that is vital for their education and healthy development as human beings and children of God. Regulation of Electronic Media

Television, electronic games, and recreational internet use not only impede the intellectual and spiritual progress of the student, but pose potentially severe moral risks. By their nature, electronic media work directly against the goal of education, which is, in part, to draw the child into reality. Parents are urged to minimize exposure to these media in the home to the greatest extent possible. Movies and TV should be thoroughly screened for content and spirit, and should generally be forbidden on school nights. The Academy strongly discourages creating, hosting, or maintaining personal websites, and participating in on-line social-networking. Further, all infractions listed in the Handbook apply to physical as well as electronic and cyber environments: students will incur the same punishment for lying online, for example, as they would for lying in class. Those who choose to participate in the cyber domain should bear in mind that the World Wide Web is an open and generally unsecured environment: true privacy does not exist there, and they must assume that all postings are instantaneous, global, and permanent. Use of cell or “smart” phones requires specific mention. These

8

now ubiquitous devices are often useful, especially as means of emergency communication. They also, however, represent one of the most prevalent sources of distraction, exposure to moral danger, and detachment from reality in our culture. Especially because of their capacity to distract, cell or smart phones (or any personal electronic devices) are not allowed in the school or during any school sponsored events. Further details follow in the “General Rules & Guidelines” section of this handbook. Conflict Resolution

Conflict is often the result of poor communication and misinformation. Parents are asked to exercise discretion and follow school procedure if a child expresses school related dissatisfaction or problems: both the school and the parents must avoid on the one hand, assuming ill will, or on the other, denying the possibility that a problem could exist. In the case of student conflict with a teacher, parents need to withhold assessment of the situation until they have first contacted the teacher involved. Only after this initial contact, and if the conflict remains unresolved, should parents contact the school principal. Direct recourse to the prior is justified when an issue relates directly to overall school policy, or to some matter difficult to present discreetly to the teacher or to the principal. In any case, parents should ask school officials about matters of concern to ensure proper understanding rather than engaging in potentially harmful judgment based upon secondhand information. A spirit of disunity and mistrust among educators is detrimental to the formation and healthy development of the child. Discretion

As a matter of charity and unity, parents are asked to avoid discussion of any faults, difficulties, or problems—actual or perceived—with the Academy or its staff in the presence of students. Beyond being an objective source of scandal, this spirit of criticism severely undermines the operation of the school and destroys the children’s confidence in any authority.

9

Homework Supervision

Parents are expected to supervise homework to ensure completion and accuracy. This daily investment of the parents’ time is one of the strongest proof they can give to children of their respect for and support of the school and education generally. Paternal Participation

As an extension of God’s authority and Catholic hierarchy, and as heads of families, fathers must take an active interest in the education of their children in matters of curriculum, school activities, and especially their children’s progress. As St. Thomas Aquinas teaches, “It is obvious that the upbringing of a human child requires not only the mother’s care for his nourishment, but much more the care of his father as guide and guardian, and under whom he progresses in goods both internal and external ... On the father devolves the upbringing of the child.” (IIa IIae q. 154, a. 2, c.) As their primary intellectual and moral guide, the father needs to realize that his children will be the reflection of his own thought and attitudes. Financial Obligation

Parents must fulfill to the best of their ability all points of the enrollment contract, including the support of official fundraisers. This is a matter of justice towards teachers and students alike. SPIRITUAL FORMATION

Students will attend the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at 11:15 each day as part of their regular schedule. Parents are most welcome to assist at this Mass whenever possible. Students will have the opportunity to go to confession during the school Mass on Thursdays. All students are required to bring their own missals. Girls

10

must also bring their own chapel veils.

DAILY SCHEDULE

General Schedule: The school day consists of classroom instruction, recess, and lunch. School is in session Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Kindergarten is not in session on Wednesdays. Daily Schedule:

8:00 a.m. Line-up and morning prayers 8:05 – 11:00 a.m. Morning Classes

11:15 a.m. Mass 12:50 – 3:00 p.m. Line-up and morning prayers

ARRIVAL, DEPARTURE, & DISMISSAL POLICY

Hours of Operation

School is considered “in session” from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The school doors remain open from 7:30 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. It is important that students arrive on time every day for maximum learning to take place. Arrival

On-time arrival at school is a matter of justice toward teachers and students. Students must be at line-up no later than 8:00 a.m. Students arriving after this time will be marked “tardy” for the day. Please use only designated areas for student drop off and pick up: Lower Church Parking Lot.

11

Students may not arrive before 7:30 a.m. The Academy is not responsible for students who arrive before this time.

Departure

School dismissal is at 3:00 p.m. Students will wait in designated areas for parents to pick them up. Parents must pick up students promptly, and not later than 3:15 p.m. Teachers will make every effort to ensure that children are ready for pick-up at dismissal time. Once a parent has arrived for pick-up, the student is considered under that parent’s care and supervision. Students may not be left unsupervised in school buildings or on school premises. The Academy will not accept responsibility for any student who remains on school or church grounds after the pick-up time. The principal may impose disciplinary penalties if children consistently remain on campus after hours. Early Departure

Parents must inform the school office in advance of any instance when a student needs to leave the school premises before the usual dismissal time. The reason for the early dismissal (doctor or dentist appointment, etc.) must be indicated. Whenever possible, parents should schedule appointments outside of school hours. Parents who need to pick up students during the school day must go to the school office to pick them up. The school requires advance written notice if someone other than the parent will pick up a student for an appointment. ATTENDANCE POLICY

Healthy students are expected to attend school every day. Students absent from school more than 18 times in an academic

12

year may be retained in the same grade, or denied a diploma for excessive absences. The principal will make the final decision in these cases.

Absence

In the case of an unforeseen absence, parents need to notify the school office as soon as possible and provide an explanation. In the case of an extended absence, parents must make arrangements with the school for schoolwork. Students returning to school after an illness or absence must bring a written note of explanation to the school office. Absence due to sickness exceeding five consecutive academic days requires an explanatory note from a physician. Student absences for which parents provide no explanation will be unexcused. Unexcused absences may result in disciplinary action. Assignments missed on account of unexcused absences will be penalized at the principal’s discretion. Students who are at school for fewer than 2 class periods on a given day will be marked “absent” for that full day. Students who must leave school before completing 4 class periods will be marked absent for a half day. A student who is taken out of school before the end of the academic year and who has not completed class work and final exams prior to departure is subject to a final report card grade of INCOMPLETE. Foreseen Absences

In the case of foreseen absence, parents must provide the school with advance written notification. Planned absences (for special occasions such as out-of-town weddings or funerals, etc.) require the further permission of the principal. Whenever possible, parents should avoid making personal plans that will result in missed class time.

13

In order to avoid disrupting the schedule of the class or of the school, retarding the child’s academic progress, and sending conflicting messages to the children regarding the importance of academics and duty of state, families are expected to plan vacations around the school schedule. Absences for vacation taken during the academic term will be considered unexcused, and students may receive zero credit for all missed class work, assignments, and exams. CALENDAR

The principal events of this year’s academic calendar are included at the end of the handbook. For all current activities, the calendar can be found online at sspxridgefield.com/school-calendar/. School officials will notify parents of any changes, should they occur. It is the parents’ responsibility to be aware of important school dates and functions. Working parents should take special note of the school’s days off, early dismissals, conference dates, etc., and should make every effort to arrange their work schedules accordingly. Student participation in functions noted on the school calendar (including occasional evening activities such as music performances) is mandatory unless explicitly indicated otherwise. MEAL POLICY

Parents should closely supervise all school meal preparations made by their children. Students—especially younger children—need sufficient, healthful nourishment in order to function properly in school. Hungry children will lack energy and concentration; those given excessive sugar frequently exhibit hyperactivity and irritability. Food Allergies

14

Parents must notify the school of any and all food allergies, their specific nature, and severity.

Lunch

Students should bring lunch to school each day in containers marked with their names. The school expects students to use proper table manners, and parents should review etiquette with them. All students eat lunch on school property. HEALTH POLICY

Communicable Disease

A student suffering from a contagious illness or a bad cold will not be allowed in school. Should an outbreak of a communicable disease occur, children not vaccinated against that disease (for which a vaccine exists) must be removed from the school for a period of time determined prudent by medical professionals. Parents must report all instances of communicable disease to the school office. Communicable diseases include but are not limited to: chicken pox, pink eye, flu, impetigo, head lice, scabies, measles, mumps, whooping cough, ring worm, roseola, strep throat, German measles, mononucleosis, and scarlet fever. Parents unsure of the communicability of an illness should consult a medical professional and call the school office before sending a child to school. Illness and Injury

Parents will be notified in the case of serious illness or injury that occurs at the school. In such cases, the child(ren) will be sent home only in the care of a parent or person designated by the parent. If immediate notification is not possible due to the nature of the injury or circumstances, the school will act in

15

compliance with the registration releases and permissions and will notify the parents/legal guardians in a timely manner. In emergency situations, the school will contact emergency medical services and parents (or designated personnel) as expeditiously as possible. Vaccinations

State law requires that children enrolled in all Connecticut schools be vaccinated against certain diseases, allowing for exceptions by way of written statements. Parents must therefore submit applicable pupil vaccination documentation, and provide updates as required. Parents assume all legal and financial responsibility in representing to the school whether or not the child is in compliance with all required immunizations SSPX Statement on Vaccination

Schools of the US District of the Society of Saint Pius X comply with vaccination policies of local health and education authorities while adhering to moral principles of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Catholic Church does not oppose vaccinations in principle, but it does consider as morally illicit the development of vaccines from aborted fetal tissues. In 2005, the Vatican clarified1 the proper position of all Catholics on this matter, and the SSPX adheres to that declaration.

Schools of the SSPX also support parental authority and freedom of choice, in matters not opposed to the moral law. If the state law does not mandate vaccination, neither do our schools. In the event of an outbreak of an infectious disease, our schools work closely with local and state officials to respond according to the guidelines prescribed by the governing authorities. 1 Pontifical Academy for Life. Moral reflections on vaccines prepared from cells derived from human aborted fetuses. Cf/. The Angelus, February 2006, vol. 29, n. 2.

Medications

16

The school may not dispense medication without professionally indicated direction. Students may not self-medicate, with the exception of insulin pumps, epinephrine (EpiPen), and asthma inhalers. The following forms, available from the school office, must be completed, signed, and dated in every applicable case and returned to the registrar’s office:

Request for Prescription Medication to be Administered During School Attendance;

Request for Non-Prescription Medication to be Administered During School Attendance;

Asthma Action Plan; Allergy Action Plan.

Parents should administer medication at home whenever possible, and should ask their doctor or pharmacist to develop an at-home dosing schedule to avoid the need for medication administration at school. Students may only bring prescriptions and other medications to school in original containers, appropriately labeled by a pharmacy or physician, and must give them to their teacher. Dosing directions should be clearly marked on each container. School personnel will not administer first-time medications.

Privacy, Safety, and Use of School Facilities

Padre Pio Academy facilities including all campus restrooms, locker rooms, bedrooms, showers, changing rooms or any other private area separately designated for use by students or attendees will be separately designated based on one’s sex as reflected by his/her original birth certificate. Any entrance by members of the opposite sex for custodial/maintenance or emergency purposes is allowed with proper notice and safeguards. All students, administrative/school staff, parents, invitees and licensees must comply with this policy in order to preserve the safety and privacy rights of our students and in efforts to maintain a proper environment conducive to a proper Catholic formation.

17

GRADE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

The curriculum for kindergarten through eighth grade includes the following subjects: Religion, Language Arts (learning to read and write, Grammar, Dictation, Literature, Composition), Latin, History and Geography, Mathematics, Nature Study and Science, Music, and Physical Education. These will be taught at the appropriate developmental level for each grade.

Fine arts—music (sacred and secular), poetry, art, and drama—are an important part of the curriculum. The school encourages performing skits, copying and drawing pictures, and dramatizing poetry and singing, along with creative projects and presentations in all subjects.

Religious Instruction

Formal religion instruction holds the place of honor in the curriculum. Classes include an ordered presentation of the Catholic Faith through the study of Christian doctrine, the life of Our Lord, the Mass, the liturgical year, Bible history, and the lives of the saints. Children are taught to memorize the catechism, and at the same time to see behind these truths the face of Our Lord, calling them to lives of holiness in union with Him. Thus, students are encouraged to develop a profound spiritual life in union with the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church. Literature and Language Arts

SSPX schools place great emphasis on a literature-based language arts program. Good literature is essential to the proper, healthy development of both the intellectual and spiritual lives. As Our Lord knew when He chose to teach through parables, stories naturally engage the intellect, inspiring wonder and understanding. Literature presents accurate depictions of reality, including the best and the worst of human nature, allowing students to experience — vicariously yet profoundly — circumstances and scenarios that will inspire them to embrace the good and reject the bad. Through reading, discussing, and writing about good literature,

18

students gain an openness to the realities of the soul, and thus are made docile to the call of grace, which draws them toward the highest of all realities. Dictation and poetry are a preparation and an extension of the study of literature, inspiring the intelligence and nourishing the memory with beauty. The study of grammar is the handmaid of literature, enabling children to penetrate the essentials of the written word and to express themselves with clarity and elegance. Other Subjects

The other classroom subjects likewise harness the curiosity and strengthen the nature of the students. Latin introduces children to the world of Rome, that ancient civilization which is the heritage of the west; math teaches accuracy, order, and logic; science explores the beauty of God’s plan in the natural world; history reinforces the study of human nature and the world, bringing to life real heroes and important events and connecting causes and effects; geography integrated with history broadens students’ cultural awareness and helps to develop a truly Catholic perspective. GRADING & ACADEMIC DISCIPLINE

Grading Scale

Letter Grade Grade Points Numerical Range A+ 4.00 100-97 A 4.00 96-94 A- 3.67 93-90 B+ 3.33 89-87 B 3.00 86-83 B- 2.67 82-80 C+ 2.33 79-77 C 2.00 76-73 C- 1.67 72-70 D 1.00 69-65 F 0.00 64-0

19

Academic Discipline/Probation

The school will issue report cards at the end of each quarter. Parents must sign and return report cards to the Academy by the date indicated. Students earn grades based on the percentage scale above. 65% or higher constitutes a passing grade. The school requires students who fail one or more subjects to remediate missed coursework in a manner determined by the school. Failure to remediate successfully according to school guidelines will necessitate a review and possible testing before advancement. Any student demonstrating consistently poor academic performance will be placed on academic probation by the principal for a designated period of time. If probationary students show no substantial progress, their parents will meet with the principal or his designated representative to determine a proper course of action, which may include expulsion. Students must understand that extensive paraphrase, excessive quotation, and unattributed sources constitute plagiarism, the theft of another’s work. Teachers will provide thorough critiques of papers and drafts, taking special care to elucidate the nature of legitimate research. Teachers will inform the principal of suspected plagiarism. In confirmed cases, the principal will determine appropriate sanctions and consequences. All academic discipline and ultimate consequences remain at the sole discretion of the principal. Deficiency Reports

The school will issue deficiency reports at the midpoint of every quarter. Deficiency reports apply to all students maintaining a D or F average in any subject, or at the teacher’s discretion. The school may also issue deficiency reports when a pattern of poor conduct exists. The report will include comments and recommendations from the teacher. Padre Pio

20

Academy encourages parents with concerns to communicate with teachers about their children’s performance. Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents are required to attend all parent-teacher conferences to discuss grades, general academic performance, character, and moral development with teachers.

HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll exists to reward outstanding scholastic achievement and to recognize those students who demonstrate superior and sustained motivation, responsibility, hard work, and character. Students who receive any conduct grade of C- or below or who have four or more tardies or any unexcused absence in an academic quarter will be ineligible for the Honor Roll. Students who have been suspended for any reason will be ineligible for the Honor Roll. Students in grades 4-8 are eligible for the Honor Roll as follows: Summa cum Laude

Final overall weighted average of 97% (A+) or above, with no final grade in any subject below a 90% (A-). Magna cum Laude

Final overall weighted average of 94% (A) or above, with no final grade in any subject below an 87% (B+). Cum Laude

Final overall weighted average of 90% (A-) or above, with no final grade in any subject below an 83% (B).

21

HOMEWORK & HOMEWORK POLICIES Homework, general Teachers assign homework to reinforce knowledge, instill a sense of responsibility, encourage time management, and develop independent study habits. This daily effort on the part of the student is essential to the formation of profound, lasting qualities of heart and mind. Students must turn in assignments on time and make up homework assignments missed due to absence. Parents are asked not to do their children’s work for them. As a fundamentally dishonest circumvention of student duties, this would undermine both the teaching and the learning processes, and seriously impede the development of good study habits. Parents should, however, supervise homework, offer any needed assistance, and see that their children have sufficient time and a suitable place in which to complete assignments. Homework Time Guidelines

K-3: It is highly recommended that parents read to their children as often as possible, preferably from the school list of recommended reading. Once the child begins to read it is beneficial to have him/her read orally to someone every night. Below is a list of possible homework assignments to do with children after school:

• Kindergarten: 15 minutes (Review of catechism questions and poetry, practice math and phonics flash cards, read to children.)

• 1st grade: 15 minutes (Review of catechism questions, oral reading, review of poetry, practice math and phonics flash cards.)

• 2nd grade: 15 minutes (Review of catechism

22

questions, oral reading, review auto-dictation and poetry, review of grammar definitions, practice math flash cards.)

• 3rd grade: 30 minutes (Review of catechism

questions, oral reading, review auto-dictation and poetry, review of grammar definitions, practice math flash cards.)

• 4th grade: 30 minutes • 5th grade: 45 minutes • 6th grade: 1 hour • 7th through 8th grades: 1 ½ hours.

These are general guidelines. Actual requirements will depend on the child’s ability to work diligently and efficiently both in class and at home. Parents should not allow their children to linger indefinitely over homework, but should set appropriate limits and require accountability for unfinished work. Teachers will strive to respect the above time guidelines, and the school in no way obliges or encourages giving unnecessary homework–merely busy-work for its own sake. Weekend assignments may, on occasion, require more time than those given on weeknights. Homework and Class Work Expectations

Padre Pio Academy and its teachers expect students to work to the best of their abilities, and parents should encourage students to take the time and care necessary to complete assignments well. Incomplete or poorly completed assignments may need to be redone. Students should take time to avoid misspellings and numerous cross-outs, and should keep homework papers in a protective folder or permanent notebook as applicable. Teachers will not accept soiled or damaged papers. Teachers will publish specifications for homework, to include acceptable formats, paper, notebooks, pens and pencils. Late Work

23

Students must complete assignments by the morning of the day they are due. Teachers will penalize late assignments up to 5 percentage points for each day they are late, and will not accept work more than 5 days late. Homework Requests When Students Are Absent

Students are responsible for obtaining missed assignments from their classmates or teachers. Ignorance is not an excuse. Parents may call the school office for assignments, and may either pick up assignments at the end of the school day, or have them sent home with siblings. Long-term projects and assignments given prior to a student absence are due on the original due date and must be delivered to the school on that day. Students should expect to take tests announced prior to an absence on the day they return to school. Summer Studies

Teachers may assign summer reading, crafts, or other projects. UNIFORM POLICY

A school uniform acts as a visible sign of the unity of a student body striving to achieve a common goal. Bearing this in mind, the standard remains uniformity, not individuality or fashion. While the school strives to develop strong individuals, the well-formed student will possess a true depth of character, and a personality strong from within, not defined from without. A uniform facilitates all of this by minimizing the possibility of disordered, vain, or immodest self-expression that seeks primarily to draw attention to self. Beyond this, uniform dress reinforces a sense of solidarity and belonging, and eliminates the significant social pressures associated with style consciousness and competition. Uniforms do not suppress individual expression; willingness to submit to the uniform policy indicates humility and maturity.

24

This handbook establishes the basic “letter of the law,” but students, aided by their parents, should discern and submit more importantly to the spirit of the uniform policy. Rather than defining each allowable or disallowable clothing item, the school relies on parents, students, and faculty to understand the purpose of uniforms and to comply with the intention of the regulations. Parents with questions or concerns should feel free to contact the school for clarification. Hygiene and Appearance

For their own health and the consideration of others, students must bathe properly and regularly. Students must appear at school in clean, pressed, and complete uniforms. Damaged or excessively worn uniform items are unacceptable. Students must remain in full uniform while on the school property, even after school. Make-up

Make-up and cosmetics are forbidden. Fingernail polish—colored or clear—is likewise forbidden. Jewelry

Jewelry is forbidden, with the exceptions of watches, and a fine-gauge necklace with a single religious medal. Girls with pierced ears may wear a single stud earring in each ear. Boys may not wear earrings. Hair

Fad hairstyles for boys or girls are forbidden. Boys must be clean-shaven, well-groomed, with hair-cut, off the collar and ears. Girls are to keep their hair pulled back and off their shoulders, with bangs short or fastened back and out of their faces. Any ribbons, hair bands, or other hair accessories are to be simple in design and color (black, blue, white, or House color). Bright colors and/or big bows and flowers are not allowed. Required Uniforms

25

The following provides general guidance concerning articles that make up the uniform, including outerwear. Any elements of the uniform that do not match the components available through the Academy are non-regulation.

• Level One: the basic uniform. • Level Two: the first outer layer: the navy-blue

school sweater or navy-blue fleece with school crest. Students are not authorized to wear any other color sweater, nor may they wear multiple sweaters.

• Level Three: during periods of colder weather, the school permits a final layer of the uniform, which may include a winter coat (winter uniform) and apparel such as hats and gloves.

Girls

• Navy blue uniform jumper (K-5) or skirt and vest (grades 6-8);

• Peter Pan collared white uniform blouse, long or short sleeve

• Red uniform girls’ snap tie • Navy-blue cardigan sweater or fleece with crest • Seasonally adjusted socks: white ankle socks,

navy blue knee socks or tights • Classic black uniform shoes, clean and with a

polished appearance. • For Physical Education: (5-8)

o Padre Pio school shirt (Available for purchase from school.)

o Navy blue PE skirt o Athletic shoes o White socks

Boys

• Navy blue uniform trousers: high waist, full cut, straight legs, with belt loops

• Black belt

26

• White button-up uniform shirt, long or short sleeve

• Navy blue or black socks • Black dress shoes, clean and with a polished

appearance. • Navy blue cardigan sweater or fleece with crest • Navy blue sweater vest • Red uniform tie • For Physical Education: (5-8)

o Padre Pio school shirt (Available for purchase from school.)

o Navy blue shorts and/or sweatpants o Athletic shoes o White socks

All uniform requirements (excepting shoes and PE shirts) are available from the Schoolbelles Uniform Company (schoolbelles.com). Our school code is S2883. NOTE: Girls must wear modest skirts, dresses, or jumpers whenever on school or church grounds. Parents, visitors, and volunteers are asked to follow these guidelines and expectations, as well, whenever on school or church grounds. GENERAL SCHOOL RULES & GUIDELINES

Character training is an important element of the education at Padre Pio Academy. The school expects loyalty, respect, and good manners, as well as immediate, cheerful cooperation from all students. Good discipline results, in large part, from the natural response students have to a gentle but firm command of respect rather than a rigid enforcement of a long list of rules. However, the school imposes certain rules to maintain order and to help students develop the habits of discipline, courtesy, etiquette, and culture necessary for intellectual and spiritual advancement.

27

Forbidden Items

School personnel will confiscate these and other inappropriate items.

• Cell or smart phones*; • Electronic devices including but not limited to

radios, CD players, MP3 players, CDs, DVDs, and electronic games of any kind;

• Books, magazines, pictures, comics, letters, notes, etc. of immoral or inappropriate content;

• Any drugs or alcoholic beverages; • Any tobacco or smoking paraphernalia,

including matches, lighters, “e-cigarettes” or other non-medical vapor emitting devices, etc.;

• Weapons of any kind. * Students are never allowed to have phones in the school. Students may take parent approved phones on school trips for communication purposes only, but must hand them over, at the beginning of the trip, to a school trip supervisor, who will give them to students only for necessary calls home. Confiscated phones will be returned to parents of violators of these rules at the discretion of the principal. General Classroom Behavior

• Students will raise their hands and wait to be called upon before asking or answering questions.

• Students will stand and respectfully greet all adult visitors to the classroom, addressing them by their appropriate title: Monsignor, Father, Sister, Mr., Mrs., Miss, etc.

Lunchroom Behavior

• Students need to bring a bag lunch. Soda is not allowed, and candy desserts are discouraged.

28

• Students may not use the microwave or any other kitchen appliances.

• Students will clean up after themselves and will help maintain the overall cleanliness of the cafeteria.

Playground Expectations

• Weather permitting, all students are expected to go out for play during recess. The school requires detailed written notification if a student cannot participate in recess activities for health or other reasons.

• Students must have appropriate cold weather clothing and footwear for recess.

• For safety reasons, the school does not allow rough play or tackle football. Snowball fights are allowed at the discretion of the monitor.

• Children must remain within established boundaries.

• During inclement weather, or when the temperature is below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, recess will take place indoors.

• Running and horseplay are forbidden inside the school.

Parties and Gift Deliveries

• Students may not take delivery of flowers, balloons, gifts, etc. during the school day.

• Birthday Parties: while recognizing the special nature of student birthdays, the school does not allow birthday parties for individual students. Subject to teacher discretion, however, students may bring snacks on their birthday to share with fellow classmates during lunch.

• Feast Day and Holiday Parties: teachers, parents, and students will not arrange classroom parties other than those approved by the school principal.

29

Respect for School Property

• The school will not tolerate any abuse of school property or acts of vandalism, including defacing or damaging desks or books. Parents will be billed for damages; the student will be required to do any necessary clean-up.

• Students will help maintain an orderly environment in the school by properly looking after their own belongings and cleaning up after themselves.

• Students will keep textbooks covered at all times. The cover should display the student’s name, grade, the book title, and subject. Damaged or lost books will be replaced at the parents’ expense.

• All property brought into the school or maintained by the school including school locker, desks and any other temporary or permanent storage areas on the grounds of the Academy are subject to searches which are with or without cause or suspicion and may be preventative in nature. By bringing items onto Academy grounds, each student and his/her parent(s) provide his/her consent for the school to search desks and lockers provided by the school for student use, at any time school authorities determine such a search is necessary.

Restroom Use

• Students will use only designated restrooms. • Barring a legitimate emergency, students grades

5 and up may not take restroom breaks during Mass.

General Items

• Students may not pass personal notes or written communications of any kind. Invitations to

30

non-school sponsored social events should be distributed outside of school hours and off-grounds to ensure parents are aware of such activities and to preclude any implication of school endorsement.

• Students must generally maintain silence in the school. Moderate noise is permitted during recess and breaks.

• Students may not run, jump, or roughhouse in any part of the school building.

• Students may not chew gum on school premises. • Students may use the school phone only in

emergencies and only with permission from a teacher.

• Students may not leave school premises during the school day without permission.

DISCIPLINE POLICY

Padre Pio Academy applies the principles of Catholic education to student discipline. True charity, at times, obliges correction and even punishment, but as a means of encouraging amendment, not inflicting suffering or fostering resentment. The Catholic educator strives to win the heart of the student: both instruction and discipline rest on a foundation of charity. As Christ Himself showed, unwavering admonition does not preclude patience and kindness, and those corrected with charity will learn to embrace virtue motivated by filial love rather than servile fear. Padre Pio Academy does not use corporal punishment. Disciplinary measures consist chiefly in the restriction of activities and privileges. Depending on circumstances, the school may limit or deny recreational activities, impose detention or study hall, assign work tasks, etc. The school will punish students based on the severity of the infraction as follows:

31

Minor Infractions

Minor infractions are incidents attributable more to thoughtlessness than to a defective disposition or ill will. Examples of minor infractions:

• Disorderly desks or lockers; • Incomplete, dirty, or excessively worn uniforms; • Excessive tardiness; • Neglect of school property; • Causing disturbances in class or during line-up; • Neglect or improper performance of academic

duties.

Teachers will correct minor infractions in the classroom, and may choose to require in-school detention, study hall, or other means, at the teacher’s discretion. Unless a pattern develops, the school will not inform parents of these offenses. Major Infractions

Major infractions are incidents of a more serious nature indicating knowledge of wrongdoing. Examples of major infractions:

• Insubordination or deliberate disobedience; • Unexcused absence; • Fighting; • Bad language; • Persistent failure to submit homework; • Failure to show up for a detention or minor (in-

school) detention; • Use or possession of forbidden electronic

devices; • Use or possession of tobacco products; • Excessive repetition of minor infractions such as

those listed above.

The school principal will handle infractions of this nature. Students will be punished with detention or other means, at his discretion. A detention may entail extensive janitorial work or

32

after-school study hall. Students guilty of major infractions may be excluded from extracurricular activities.

Grave Infractions

Grave infractions are incidents indicating knowledge of wrongdoing with social and moral ramifications. Examples of grave infractions:

• Conduct or spirit prejudicial to the school; • Offensive behavior or lifestyle not in line with

that of a traditional Catholic school student; • Lying, cheating, or any academic fraud,

including plagiarism; • Any illegal activity; • Use, possession, purchase, attempts to purchase

or sell drugs or drug paraphernalia or alcohol; • Possession, purchase, or selling of weapons or

fireworks; • Grave or repeated disrespect; • Theft; • Vandalism or destruction of property; • Indecent fraternization; • Obscene expressions, gestures, writings, or

conversations, including postings of such nature on the Internet;

• Possession of immoral material; • Excessive repetition of major infractions such as

those listed above.

The principal will handle infractions of this nature. Students will be punished by suspension or expulsion, at his discretion. Suspensions may be of shorter or longer duration, depending on the gravity of the offense. Work missed during the time of suspension may receive a zero, at the principal’s discretion. Expulsion, once imposed, will last for the duration of the

33

academic year. The principal may grant readmission at his discretion.

Notice of Disciplinary Action

Parents will be notified officially, by way of a disciplinary notice, of major and grave infractions, and of the disciplinary measures taken. A copy of the notice will remain in the student’s file. The principal may request a meeting. Miscellaneous Rules & Consequences

Loyalty and respect, as well as immediate cheerful cooperation, are the virtues expected from all students. Immature or uncivilized behavior will not be tolerated. All buildings and areas on school/church grounds in which the student does not have immediate academic interest are off-limits, with the exception of the chapel. Disciplinary Probation

Any student demonstrating consistently poor conduct will be placed on disciplinary probation by the principal for a designated period of time. While on disciplinary probation, a student is ineligible to participate in any extracurricular activities. If a student in a probationary status shows no substantial improvement in behavior, his or her parents will meet with the principal to determine a proper course of action, which may include expulsion. Additional Considerations

• Student employment outside the home during the school week is strongly discouraged. If a student’s academic performance is deficient and he or she works outside the home on school days, parents should insist upon a change in work schedule or job termination. The principal may separate academically deficient students with jobs who continue to sacrifice academics

34

for employment.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips can provide meaningful and enjoyable learning experiences for students. Parents must complete and sign the “Release of Liability/Emergency Medical/Field Trip Permission Form” at the beginning of the school year. This form will remain on file for the entire academic year. Students who do not have a signed form on file will not be permitted to participate in any field trip. The school will inform parents of field trips throughout the year by means of an additional notification for the specific activity, which must be signed and returned to the school prior to the event. Field trips are a student privilege and not a right. Students may be denied field trip privileges if they are not performing well academically or behaviorally. Students denied field trip privileges for any reason must still attend school on field trip days. APPOINTMENTS & CONTACT WITH SCHOOL PERSONNEL

Appointments with Teachers or Administration

Parents may request meetings with any member of the school faculty or administration. Such meetings should be scheduled in advance through the school office. Contact with Teachers

Parents should contact teachers regarding school matters during regular school hours. The school will not call teachers out of the classroom or away from other supervisory duties to take calls during school hours.

35

Teachers who receive messages relating to school matters will return phone calls during available free periods. Teachers will respond to messages left after hours at their earliest convenience.

VISITOR POLICY

Visitors, including parents, must enter buildings through the main school doors and check in at school offices. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES & SCHOOL CLOSINGS

Fire Drills

Fire drills are mandatory, and the school will conduct them regularly throughout the year. During drills, students must maintain silence and behave in a controlled manner to ensure safety of other students, faculty, and staff personnel. Inclement Weather and School Closings

A decision to cancel school under adverse weather conditions is made in the interests of the students’ welfare and safety. If the Ridgefield School District closes for the day, Padre Pio Academy will generally also be closed for the day. Parents will be notified via the school email when there is a school closing. School closings will also be published on our online school calendar. If severe weather begins after school is in session, parents may pick up students and form carpools at their discretion. The school will contact parents in the event of an early closing, and parents should have an emergency transportation plan in place in case they cannot come and pick up their child or children.

36

TUITION, FUNDRAISING, & FINANCIAL AID

Tuition

As it is a matter of justice, contractual obligation, and the financial stability of the school, parents must take their tuition obligations seriously. Parents, who for valid reasons cannot meet their monthly obligation as agreed upon in the enrollment contract, must contact the principal to inform him of the difficulty and make alternative arrangements, such as a payment plan. In the absence of special arrangements made with the principal, the school may apply late fees to missed payments. The school may require parents to withdraw students until they can meet financial obligations. The school reserves the right to withhold report cards, transcripts, and diplomas in these cases. Fundraising Obligations

Fundraising provides necessary operating income and allows the school to maintain tuition costs well below average for private institutions. Fundraising also instills in students a sense of ownership and responsibility. Participation in the official school fundraiser is mandatory for all families. Financial Aid

As per US District policy, all applications for “Grant an Aid” must be through the FACTS Tuition Management Service.

Each year, the US District can provide a limited amount of financial assistance to families in legitimate need, though the amount available depends entirely on benefactor donations earmarked for this purpose.

VOLUNTEERING

37

Volunteers are vital to the successful operation of the school. Those interested in volunteering should contact the school office. For security purposes, volunteers may be asked to complete a routine background check release. Confidentiality Agreement

Volunteers must understand the importance of confidentiality and students’ privacy rights. Any information obtained or overheard while volunteering at the school, or in any capacity in or out of the classroom, must remain confidential.

Volunteers will:

• Respect the confidentiality of all faculty, staff, and students;

• Remain in designated work areas; • Dress appropriately for activities; • Know and adhere to Academy rules and

expectations; • Notify the school office and the appropriate

teacher if they cannot come when expected.

Volunteers will not:

• Hold unscheduled conferences with teachers; • Visit classrooms of their own children

unannounced; • Bring their own children other than those

directly involved to scheduled activities without prior approval;

• Use cell/smart phones or other personal electronic devices while supervising children in class, on the playground, or on field trips, except to fulfill assigned duties.

WITHDRAWAL, TRANSFER, & READMISSION

38

Withdrawal Guidelines

In the event of withdrawal from the Academy during an academic year:

• Parents should arrange a meeting with the principal to discuss and/or finalize the withdrawal.

• After making the decision to withdraw, parents must inform the principal and return all borrowed books and materials to the school.

• Faculty will have at least three days to prepare materials for the withdrawal.

• The contract signed for enrollment is binding: parents must pay all fees and reconcile all accounts.

Readmission after Withdrawal

The school will not guarantee readmission to students withdrawn from the Academy during an academic year for reasons other than relocation or health. At the discretion of the principal, the school may impose a one year waiting period before considering a request for readmission. In these cases, the school will consider these children to be new students for purposes of admission and enrollment. Transfer

Padre Pio Academy will not automatically release records to another school in the case of transfer. The new school must request student health, scholastic and standardized test records from the Academy in writing with a transcript release request form. Padre Pio Academy reserves the right to withhold all records until all financial obligations have been met.